Analysis of the development of the working alliance using hierarchical linear modeling.

Abstract

The relation between the working alliance and therapeutic outcome was examined in 21 therapist-client dyads. This relation was analyzed in terms of the level of alliance at the third counseling session, midpoint of treatment, and last session with linear and curvilinear models of the temporal development of the working alliance. Analyses were conducted with hierarchical linear modeling. Results revealed a significant association between the linear growth function of therapist ratings of the working alliance and therapeutic outcome. The use of hierarchical linear modeling in counseling psychology research and the need for conceptualizing the working alliance as a temporally variant, as opposed to a static, process are discussed.